#chicago_cubs

Mets' Tobias Myers to Start Instead of David Peterson The New York Mets made a strategic decision late Saturday night to have right-hander Tobias Myers start Sunday’s game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, replacing left-handed pitcher David Peterson. The move was not related to injury but aimed at adjusting the lineup to limit Peterson’s exposure to right-handed batters at the top of the order. Manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the need to create a more balanced approach against teams that frequently stack right-handed hitters in their lineups, particularly given Peterson’s recent struggles. Peterson, who entered the season with an All-Star performance last year, has faced challenges this year. Through four starts, he carries a 0-3 record and a 6.41 ERA. His performance against right-handed batters has been particularly poor, as he has allowed a .339 batting average to those hitters. Mendoza noted that after Peterson’s last start, the team discussed the possibility of using an opener or a different setup to protect Peterson. However, the final decision was based on the bullpen’s readiness and the need to adjust the lineup for better balance. Despite the Mets’ 10-game losing streak—their longest since 2004—the decision was not tied to the team’s recent performance but rather to Peterson’s effectiveness. Mendoza stated that the focus was on positioning players for success, regardless of the outcome. “Whether we’re winning or losing, it just came down to putting players in position to have success,” he said. Myers, acquired in a trade from Milwaukee earlier this offseason alongside Freddy Peralta, has been used primarily as a reliever for the Mets this season. He has made six relief appearances, posting a 3.46 ERA with nine strikeouts in 13 innings.#chicago_cubs #new_york_mets #carlos_mendoza #tobias_myers #david_peterson

Cubs Stage Dramatic Comeback to Avoid Sweep Against Pirates The Chicago Cubs delivered a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 12, 2026, in a dramatic ninth-inning walk-off win that salvaged the series after a frustrating weekend. The game, which saw the Cubs fall behind early and face a potential sweep, became a testament to resilience, with key contributions from multiple players and a standout performance from starting pitcher Jameson Taillon. The Cubs entered the game with a 3-1 deficit in the bottom of the ninth, bases loaded, and one out. Carson Kelly, the team’s rookie second baseman, stepped up with a game-winning single to the warning track in right-center field, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The walk-off hit, which came after a sequence of clutch hits and defensive plays, marked a turning point for the Cubs, who had struggled to string together offensive success earlier in the season. The comeback began in the third inning when Dansby Swanson launched a solo home run to center field, igniting the Cubs’ offense. Swanson’s power play was a critical early spark, setting the tone for the team’s eventual rally. However, the Cubs’ offensive struggles persisted throughout much of the game, with the Pirates capitalizing on defensive lapses and timely hits. The Pirates’ lead grew to three runs by the fifth inning, and the Cubs’ offense appeared to be in a rut. Despite the challenges, the Cubs’ bullpen held the Pirates in check, allowing just one run over the final four innings. Jameson Taillon, who had been criticized for his earlier struggles, pitched six innings of solid ball, allowing six earned runs but limiting damage with key strikeouts and defensive plays.#chicago_cubs #pittsburgh_pirates #dansby_swanson #jameson_taillon #carson_kelly

Cubs Avoid Sweep with Dramatic 7-6 Win Over Pirates The Chicago Cubs secured a hard-fought 7-6 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 12, 2026, avoiding a sweep in a crucial series at Wrigley Field. The game, which stretched into the ninth inning, featured a dramatic comeback that highlighted the team’s resilience despite a sluggish offensive performance earlier in the series. The Cubs’ breakthrough came in the bottom of the ninth inning, where Carson Kelly delivered the game-winning hit. With the bases loaded and one out, Kelly smashed a "single" to the warning track in right-center, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The win marked a pivotal moment for the Cubs, who had struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities throughout the series. The Pirates had taken an early lead, but the Cubs’ offense clawed back with a series of rallies. After falling behind 4-3 in the top of the 11th inning, the Cubs’ bats finally came alive, pushing the game into extra innings. However, the Pirates’ offense proved just as dangerous, as they scored the go-ahead run in the top of the 11th on a controversial play involving Caleb Thielbar’s errant throw to first base. The Cubs’ starting rotation played a critical role in the victory, with Edward Cabrera pitching a scoreless game to keep the Pirates’ offense in check. Despite the team’s offensive struggles, the rotation’s performance provided the foundation for the comeback. The win was a welcome relief for the Cubs, who had been plagued by missed opportunities in the previous games. The series against the Pirates, which did not include the presence of Paul Skenes, was a test of the team’s ability to adapt and execute under pressure. The Cubs’ ability to avoid the sweep underscored their determination to turn things around in the 2026 season.#chicago_cubs #pittsburgh_pirates #wrigley_field #carson_kelly #edward_cabrera

Former Dodgers Fan Favorite Justin Turner Finally Finds New Home Justin Turner, the beloved former Los Angeles Dodgers infielder, has secured a new professional baseball opportunity after a prolonged search. The 41-year-old veteran, who spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Cubs, has signed with the Tijuana Toros of the Mexican League, according to Dodgers insider David Vassegh. The move marks the latest chapter in Turner’s storied career, which has spanned over a decade in Major League Baseball. Turner’s departure from the Dodgers occurred after the 2022 season, when the team opted not to extend his contract. Despite his contributions to the franchise’s success, including a World Series title in 2020, the decision left fans and teammates heartbroken. His time with the Dodgers, which began as a minor league free agent in 2014, became a cornerstone of the organization’s dominance during the 2010s. Turner’s leadership, combined with his consistent hitting, helped the Dodgers remain a powerhouse for years. After leaving the Dodgers, Turner joined the Cubs in 2025, but his playing time was limited to 80 games due to his age. During his tenure with Chicago, he posted a .219 batting average with three home runs and 18 runs batted in. However, his most notable achievement with the team was reaching his 200th career home run, a milestone celebrated by the MLB on July 9, 2025. The accomplishment underscored his longevity and skill, even as his role in the Cubs’ clubhouse became more symbolic than active. Turner’s leadership was a key factor in the Cubs’ 2025 playoff run, where he served as a mentor to younger players. Catcher Carson Kelly praised Turner’s influence, calling him a “veteran who’s seen a lot of things” and a “big piece of the locker room.#chicago_cubs #los_angeles_dodgers #justin_turner #tijuana_toros #mexican_league

Justin Turner Joins Mexican League's Tijuana Toros After MLB Tenure After a nine-year stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers and a brief tenure with the Chicago Cubs, veteran outfielder Justin Turner has signed with the Tijuana Toros of the Mexican League. The 41-year-old player, who became a World Series champion with Los Angeles in 2020, is set to embark on a new chapter in his professional baseball career. The move marks a significant step down from Major League Baseball, but Turner’s experience and track record suggest he could thrive in the Mexican League. Turner joined the Dodgers in 2014 after a short stint with the New York Mets, where he quickly became a key contributor. Over the next nine seasons, he established himself as a reliable power hitter and a clutch performer. His most iconic moment came in 2017, when he hit a three-run walk-off home run in the NLCS against the Chicago Cubs, securing a dramatic victory for the Dodgers. Turner’s contributions extended beyond that game, as he earned an NLCS award, made two All-Star appearances, and became a staple of the Dodgers’ lineup. Following his departure from the Dodgers, Turner played for the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, Seattle Mariners, and Chicago Cubs. His time with the Cubs in 2025 was notable, though his performance was less impactful than in previous seasons. In 169 at-bats, he hit .219 with three home runs, a stark contrast to his earlier career averages. Despite the decline, Turner’s ability to adapt and contribute in high-pressure situations remained evident. The decision to join the Tijuana Toros was made after a lengthy free agency process. While the Mexican League offers a lower level of competition compared to MLB, Turner’s experience and leadership could provide a significant boost to the Toros’ roster.#chicago_cubs #los_angeles_dodgers #justin_turner #tijuana_toros #mexican_league

Former Dodgers Star Justin Turner Signs With Surprise Team Justin Turner, the former Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman, has signed with the Tijuana Toros of the Mexican League, marking a surprising move in his long free agency period. The 41-year-old slugger, who spent the 2022 season with the Chicago Cubs, has not found a Major League Baseball team since leaving the Dodgers in 2022. His decision to join the Toros comes after a challenging season in the majors, where he struggled against top-tier pitching and posted a below-replacement-level performance in terms of bWAR. Turner’s career with the Dodgers, which spanned nine full seasons, was defined by his transformation from an unknown prospect to a key offensive force. He became one of the most reliable hitters in the league, known for his clutch home runs and consistent production. His contributions were instrumental in the Dodgers’ 2020 World Series victory, and he earned two All-Star selections while manning the hot corner. In 2021, he was named NLCS MVP for his heroics in the postseason. His final season with the Dodgers was in 2022, when he turned 37. Despite his age, he remained a fan favorite, but his performance that year was a stark contrast to his earlier success. In 191 plate appearances and 169 at-bats, Turner hit .219/.288/.314 with three home runs and 18 RBIs. While his numbers were well below his career averages, he expressed a strong desire to continue playing at the highest level. After leaving the Dodgers, Turner bounced around the league, spending time with the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, Seattle Mariners, and Cubs. However, his 2022 season with the Cubs marked his first full year since leaving Los Angeles, and he struggled to adapt to the pace of the majors.#chicago_cubs #los_angeles_dodgers #justin_turner #tijuana_toros #mexican_league

Pirates enter Wrigley Field looking to set early-season tone The Pittsburgh Pirates, seeking to redefine their relationship with the Chicago Cubs, head to Wrigley Field for a three-game series beginning Friday, April 9, 2026. The matchup marks a critical opportunity for the Pirates to shift their narrative after a historically lopsided 2025 season, during which the Cubs dominated them 10-3 in 13 interleague contests. The Cubs outscored the Pirates 54-26 and hit .256 against Pittsburgh’s pitching, while the Pirates’ offense struggled with a .182 batting average and .523 OPS. The Cubs’ dominance extended to home runs, as they launched 16 compared to the Pirates’ five, and their .740 OPS highlighted their offensive superiority. The Pirates, currently sitting at 7-5 in the 2026 season, aim to break from their recent pattern of struggles against the Cubs. Since September 2024, the Pirates have yet to secure a series victory against Chicago, a trend that has defined their rivalry. Wrigley Field, known for its unique charm and intimidating atmosphere, has been particularly unforgiving to the Pirates. The team’s recent performance against the Cubs has been marked by defensive lapses and offensive ineffectiveness, making Friday’s game a pivotal test of their resolve. Manager Don Kelly, in his first full season at the helm, has watched a team that once led the National League in home runs (117) in 2025 evolve into a more balanced offensive force. Through 12 games in 2026, the Pirates have already hit 12 home runs, tying them for eighth in the league. Offseason additions Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn have been instrumental, each hitting three home runs to spark the team’s resurgence. The Pirates’ offense now ranks tied for ninth in hits per game (8.3), ninth in batting average (.247), sixth in on-base percentage (.#chicago_cubs #pittsburgh_pirates #brandon_lowe #ryan_ohearn #don_kelly

Cubs vs. Rays Series Preview: Key Matchups and Team Insights The Chicago Cubs are set to face the Tampa Bay Rays in a three-game series at the renovated Tropicana Field, marking their third consecutive matchup against an American League team. The series, scheduled for April 6–8, 2026, will see both teams enter with identical 4-5 records, though the Rays have played all nine of their games on the road to ensure the new stadium was ready for its home opener. The Cubs, meanwhile, aim to extend their winning streak against the Rays, who have struggled to maintain leads and provide run support for their pitching staff. The Rays’ season has been a mixed bag, with early-season challenges despite the return of All-Star pitcher Shane McClanahan. McClanahan made his 2026 debut against the Milwaukee Brewers, delivering a strong performance in his lone start, though the team’s offense failed to capitalize on opportunities. Drew Rasmussen, another key pitcher, has also shown promise with a 1.80 ERA, posing a significant threat to the Cubs’ lineup. However, the Rays’ defense has been a concern, with frequent errors and inconsistent results complicating their efforts to secure wins. For the Cubs, the series presents an opportunity to build momentum after a challenging start to the season. The team’s 11-14 all-time record against the Rays includes a 2-6 mark in Tampa, where they lost three straight games in 2008 and split two contests in 2017. Last year, the Cubs won two of three games at Wrigley Field, offering a glimmer of hope for a strong showing in the renovated Tropicana Field. The Cubs’ lineup will need to capitalize on key players like Chandler Simpson, whose speed and aggressive base-running could disrupt the Rays’ defense. The pitching matchups are a critical factor in the series.#chicago_cubs #tropicana_field #tampa_bay_rays #shane_mcclanahan #drew_rasmussen

Chicago Cubs vs. Tampa Bay Rays Game Preview: Early Season Rivalry and Key Matchups The Chicago Cubs and Tampa Bay Rays are set to face off for the first time this season on Monday, April 6, at 3:10 CT. This matchup marks the earliest date in the Cubs’ history for a game against the Rays, surpassing the previous earliest meeting on April 18, 2022, at Wrigley Field. The Rays’ last visit to Chicago was June 11, 2024, and the Cubs’ first games against the Angels and Guardians this season also set new early-season records for those rivalries. The Cubs’ recent performance against the Rays has been mixed, with the team losing three of their last four games against them. Notably, the Cubs have struggled to convert three-homer games into wins, losing the last three such contests. The most recent loss occurred in Game 2 of a doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians on March 29, where the Cubs fell 6-5 despite hitting three home runs. Prior to that, the Cubs had a strong record in three-homer games, winning 16 of 19 contests since Sept. 30, 2023. The Cubs split their doubleheader against the Guardians on Sunday, ending a long drought since their last road doubleheader sweep on Sept. 11, 2015, at Philadelphia. The team has also excelled in base-stealing, recording eight stolen bases without being caught this season, a feat unmatched by any other MLB team. The pitching matchup features Jameson Taillon for the Cubs and Shane McClanahan for the Rays. Taillon, making his 2026 season debut, struggled in his first start, walking four batters and failing to complete the fifth inning. However, his performance was a marked improvement over his Spring Training struggles. Taillon’s last appearance against the Rays was on June 11, 2024, when he pitched six shutout innings, striking out five.#chicago_cubs #tampa_bay_rays #jameson_taillon #shane_mcclanahan #cedric_mullins

Cubs vs. Rays Game Prediction and Odds for April 6, 2026 The Chicago Cubs and Tampa Bay Rays are set to face off in an interleague matchup on Monday, April 6, 2026, as part of Tampa Bay’s home opener at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. The game is scheduled to begin at 4:10 p.m. ET, with the Rays listed as -124 favorites on the money line, while the Cubs are +104 underdogs. The over/under total runs for the game is set at 8. SportsLine’s computer model, which has a track record of profitability in MLB betting, has simulated the matchup 10,000 times and has locked in its predictions for the game. The Cubs, who entered the season with a 4-5 record, are coming off a doubleheader split against the Cleveland Guardians. In the first game, they defeated the Guardians 1-0, while they lost the second game 6-5. The team, which finished second in the National League Central with a 92-70 record in 2025, has struggled on the road, posting a 42-39 record. Meanwhile, the Rays, with a 4-5 record of their own, have shown stronger performance at home, going 41-40 in their home games. Tampa Bay finished fourth in the American League East in 2025 and has been a formidable offensive force, ranking sixth in MLB with a .265 team batting average. The Rays’ offense is highlighted by their ninth-best slugging percentage at .391, while the Cubs have struggled offensively, ranking 13th in the league at .249. SportsLine’s model projects that the Rays will have a strong showing, with key players like Yandy Diaz, Jonathan Aranda, Junior Caminero, and Nick Fortes expected to contribute over 1.5 total bases combined. The Cubs’ lineup, featuring Michael Busch, Alex Bregman, Ian Happ, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Nico Hoerner, and Carson Kelly, is projected to generate more than 1.48 total bases.#chicago_cubs #sportsline #tropicana_field #tampa_bay_rays #yandy_diaz

Cleveland Guardians vs. Chicago Cubs Easter Doubleheader: Postponement, Lineups, and Broadcast Details CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Guardians and Chicago Cubs faced off in a rescheduled Easter Sunday doubleheader on April 5, 2026, after their originally scheduled April 4 game was postponed. The Guardians had previously secured a home opener victory on April 3, defeating the Cubs with a home run from Chase DeLauter. The doubleheader began at 1:10 p.m. ET, marking the first time the two teams would play twice in a single day. The Guardians’ decision to call up left-handed pitcher Logan Allen added depth to their pitching rotation for the doubleheader. Allen, who had previously been on the minor league roster, was named the 27th man for the games, providing flexibility in case of injuries or performance issues. This move highlighted the team’s strategy to manage workload and maintain competitive balance across both games. For the first game of the doubleheader, Slade Cecconi was scheduled to start, as he had been set to pitch on April 4 before the postponement. Cecconi’s return to the mound was significant, as he had previously shown promise in the 2025 season. The second game would be handled by Parker Messick, who had been preparing for a potential start in the absence of a scheduled opponent. The decision to split the starting duties between Cecconi and Messick reflected the team’s emphasis on distributing pitching responsibilities effectively. The Guardians’ lineup for the doubleheader included key players such as Chase DeLauter in right field, Daniel Schneemann at third base, and Brayan Rocchio at second base. These selections underscored the team’s focus on leveraging their offensive strengths while maintaining defensive stability.#chicago_cubs #cleveland_guardians #chase_delauter #logan_allen #slade_ceccconi

Cubs' Doubleheader Postponed Amid Rain, Injury Concerns The Chicago Cubs faced a series of challenges as their scheduled doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians on April 4, 2026, was postponed due to rain. The storm, which arrived in Cleveland on Saturday evening, disrupted the team’s plans for the traditional twin bill, originally set to begin at 12:10 p.m. CT on Sunday at Progressive Field. The postponement provided the Cubs additional time to evaluate their pitching options for the rescheduled games, which would feature righty Edward Cabrera in Game 1 and lefty Shota Imanaga in Game 2. The Cubs’ rotation was already under pressure after Cade Horton, a key starter, exited Friday’s game early due to right forearm discomfort. Horton’s injury forced the team to place him on the 15-day injured list with a right forearm strain, leaving a critical gap in their starting lineup. Manager Craig Counsell has not yet officially named Horton’s replacement, but veteran Colin Rea is emerging as a leading candidate. Rea, who previously served as a reliever before being moved to the rotation in 2025, has shown resilience in his career, including a strong September 2025 stretch with a 2.63 ERA and a 1.17 ERA in three playoff games. To bolster their depth, the Cubs promoted righty Ethan Roberts as the 27th man for the doubleheader and recalled lefty Riley Martin from Triple-A Iowa. Martin, who participated in Saturday’s workout in Cleveland, added another layer to the team’s pitching options. However, the uncertainty surrounding Horton’s injury and the need for a reliable starter for the team’s next game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday complicated the decision-making process. The Cubs’ bullpen and minor league system also played a role in addressing the depth concerns.#chicago_cubs #cade_horton #cleveland_guardians #colin_rea #progressive_field

Washington Nationals Open Season with Strong 10-4 Victory Over Cubs The Washington Nationals kicked off their 2024 season with a commanding 10-4 win over the Chicago Cubs, powered by unexpected contributions from several players. The game, which marked the start of a new era for the Nationals under manager Blake Butera, saw the team’s offense come alive in a way that surprised many, particularly given their quiet performance during Spring Training. Butera also secured his first managerial victory in this game, adding to the significance of the result. The Nationals’ offensive surge began in the second inning when Joey Wiemer, a relative newcomer to the team, made an immediate impact. Despite strong winds pushing the ball out of the park, Wiemer launched a changeup from Matthew Boyd into the left field seats, giving the Nationals an early lead. Wiemer continued to dominate the game, finishing 3-for-3 with a walk and showcasing his athleticism and defensive skills. His aggressive baserunning, though resulting in one costly out, highlighted his potential as a key contributor to the outfield. Wiemer’s performance was particularly notable against left-handed pitching, where his career OPS of .638 jumped to .779, suggesting he could be a valuable asset in that matchup. The game’s momentum shifted further in the fourth inning when Jacob Young, a player known for his contact approach, delivered a two-run home run that capped off a six-run inning. Young’s power display, which included multiple well-struck balls, hinted at his potential to contribute more offensively in the future. However, not all players found their rhythm. James Wood, who had struggled in previous seasons and during Spring Training, went 0-for-5 with four strikeouts, raising concerns about his readiness for the 2024 season.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #chicago_cubs #james_wood #joey_wiemer

Nationals' Blake Butera Makes History as MLB's Youngest Manager Blake Butera, 33, will become the youngest manager in Major League Baseball history when he takes the field for the Washington Nationals’ Opening Day game against the Chicago Cubs on March 26. His appointment marks a significant shift in the sport’s leadership, as he will be the first manager in MLB named Blake, a name that has steadily climbed in popularity over the decades. While the focus on his age may overshadow his qualifications, Butera’s background as a key figure in the Tampa Bay Rays’ organization and his ability to connect with younger players position him as a promising leader in the evolving landscape of baseball. Butera’s rise to the managerial role is part of a broader trend of generational change in the sport. The name “Blake” has transitioned from a relatively obscure choice in the 1960s and ’70s to a more common name by the 1990s, peaking at No. 84 in popularity. Today, it ranks around No. 95, but its cultural presence has grown significantly, from preschool classrooms to youth sports teams. Butera, a new father himself, represents a new era of leadership in baseball, where younger managers are increasingly shaping the game. The Nationals’ decision to hire Butera, a 33-year-old with extensive experience in player development and management, reflects their commitment to a rebuild centered around youth and innovation. The team’s roster includes several players younger than Butera, with only veteran starter Miles Mikolas, 37, older than him. This dynamic has prompted discussions about whether his age provides an edge in relatability, though Butera emphasizes that his focus is on preparation and performance.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #chicago_cubs #tampa_bay_rays #miles_mikolas

Jason Heyward Announces Retirement After 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, Jason Heyward has officially retired, marking the end of a career defined by defensive excellence, leadership, and resilience. In a statement, Heyward expressed gratitude for his time in the game, emphasizing his pride in contributing to the sport and looking forward to mentoring young players and engaging as a fan. “I’m glad and happy to be stepping to the other side of the game,” he said. “I feel like the game is in good hands.” Heyward’s journey began with a standout rookie season, where he hit .277/.393/.456 and became a key offensive force in his home state. However, his early career was shaped by trade and contract decisions. In 2015, the Atlanta Braves sent him to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for right-hander Shelby Miller, a move that proved beneficial for both teams. Heyward thrived in St. Louis, posting a .293/.359/.439 slash line with elite defensive play, earning a Gold Glove and rejecting a qualifying offer. The Cardinals secured a compensatory draft pick, while the Braves reaped an All-Star season from Miller before trading him to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Heyward’s next major chapter unfolded with the Chicago Cubs, where he signed an eight-year, $184 million contract in 2017—the largest in franchise history. Despite his iconic rain delay speech during the 2016 World Series, his performance with the Cubs fell short of expectations. He hit .230/.306/.325 in his first season and, while his 2018-20 numbers (.261/.347/.419) were solid, the Cubs released him after the seventh year of his contract. He won two Gold Gloves in Chicago but struggled offensively, posting a .245/.323/.377 line in 2,836 plate appearances. A 2023 trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers provided a resurgence, as Heyward slashed .269/.#chicago_cubs #atlanta_braves #los_angeles_dodgers #st_louis_cardinals #jason_heyward

Cubs Home Opener Faces Threat of Massive Hail Chicago — The Chicago Cubs’ home opener on April 7, 2022, against the Washington Nationals could be disrupted by severe weather, including hail stones nearly the size of a baseball. The National Weather Service issued a hazardous weather outlook, warning of large hail, high winds, and thunderstorms that could impact the game scheduled for 1:20 p.m. at Wrigley Field. Meteorologist Kevin Doom of the National Weather Service emphasized that hail exceeding two inches in diameter poses the greatest risk. Such hail could cause significant damage to vehicles, break windows, harm property, and endanger people. Doom warned that being outdoors during such conditions would be extremely dangerous, noting that hail of that size could cause serious injury. In addition to hail, the storm system is expected to bring winds reaching 60 mph and lightning, which could lead to downed trees and power lines. Doom urged residents to seek shelter indoors during the storm, highlighting that open spaces like sports fields are particularly hazardous. The Chicago Office of Emergency Management advised fans attending the game to be aware of emergency exits, evacuation routes, and sheltering procedures within Wrigley Field in case of severe weather. Those planning to attend or go outside were encouraged to ensure quick access to indoor shelter. Game updates, including potential postponements or cancellations, will be posted on the Cubs’ official website. The National Weather Service also noted that rain and thunderstorms could begin as early as 10 p.m. on Wednesday, though conditions are expected to improve by Friday, with partly sunny skies and temperatures near 40 degrees. Saturday and Sunday are forecasted to be sunny, with highs ranging from 50 to 60 degrees.#national_weather_service #chicago_cubs #wrigley_field #kevin_doom #kankakee

Cubs, Nico Hoerner Agree to 6-Year Extension The Chicago Cubs have secured second baseman Nico Hoerner with a six-year contract extension, keeping him under team control through the 2029 season. The deal, reported by ESPN, prevents Hoerner from becoming a free agent after the 2025 season. Financial details of the agreement remain undisclosed, and the Cubs have not officially announced the signing. Hoerner, 28, struggled in his debut with the Cubs, going 0 for 4 in the team’s Opening Day loss to the Washington Nationals. However, his overall performance in 2024 was impressive. Last season, he posted a .297 batting average with a .345 on-base percentage and .394 slugging percentage, along with 29 stolen bases. His strikeout rate was among the lowest among qualified hitters, and his defensive skills earned him a Gold Glove Award. Over the past four seasons, Hoerner has consistently contributed around 4 wins above replacement (WAR), solidifying his status as one of baseball’s most underrated players. The extension comes as part of a broader effort by the Cubs to retain key players ahead of free agency. Earlier this week, the team also signed center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong to a six-year, $115 million contract. With shortstop Dansby Swanson already locked in through 2029, the Cubs have ensured their infielders—Hoerner, Crow-Armstrong, and Swanson—will remain together for at least three more seasons. All three are Gold Glove defenders, and their combined offensive and defensive value is considered nearly irreplaceable. The decision to extend Hoerner aligns with predictions made by analysts earlier in the season. With several core players set to hit free agency, including Ian Happ, Shota Imanaga, Seiya Suzuki, Jameson Taillon, and others, the Cubs were expected to prioritize long-term deals.#chicago_cubs #mlb #pete_crowarmstrong #nico_hoerner #dansby_swanson

Nico Hoerner Signs Six-Year Contract Extension with Cubs The Chicago Cubs have finalized a long-term contract extension with second baseman Nico Hoerner, securing his services through the 2032 season. The deal, which is pending a physical examination, was confirmed through a source shared with MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian. Hoerner, who was set to become a free agent following the 2025 season, will now remain with the Cubs for the next six years. Hoerner’s performance in 2025 marked his most productive season to date. The 28-year-old recorded a career-high 114 OPS+ over 649 plate appearances, showcasing his offensive growth. He also earned his second Gold Glove Award, recognizing his elite defensive skills at second base. His defensive metrics further highlighted his value, as he led all second basemen in 2025 with 14 outs above average. Beyond his defensive prowess, Hoerner’s all-around contributions were significant. He posted a 6.2 Baseball-Reference WAR in 2025, tying him with the Mets’ Juan Soto for seventh among position players. This marks a substantial leap from his earlier career, reflecting his development into a key offensive and defensive asset for the Cubs. Hoerner’s journey with the Cubs began in 2018 when he was selected in the first round. After signing a three-year extension in 2023, he has evolved into a leader within the team’s clubhouse. His work ethic and leadership qualities have been instrumental in shaping the team’s culture, both on and off the field. The Cubs’ decision to extend Hoerner comes alongside another major contract move. On the same day, the team announced a six-year extension for center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, ensuring his presence through the 2032 season. These signings underscore the Cubs’ commitment to building a competitive roster for the foreseeable future.#chicago_cubs #nico_hoerner #mlb_com #jordan_bastian #pete_crow_armstrong

Where to Watch Nationals vs. Cubs: TV Channel, Start Time, Streaming for March 26 Baseball is back, and finding the right channel for your favorite team has become more complex since MLB announced plans to produce and distribute broadcasts for nearly a third of the league. Here’s a breakdown of how to watch the Nationals vs. Cubs matchup on Thursday, March 26. The first pitch between the Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs is set for 2:20 p.m. ET at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois. The game will be televised on Marquee Sports Network and Nationals.TV. Fans can also stream the matchup through Fubo, though regional restrictions may apply. For those seeking additional options, ESPN Unlimited offers access to MLB coverage throughout the season. To stay updated on the game, fans can check MLB scores and results on usatoday.com. The article includes a link to USA TODAY’s sortable MLB schedule, allowing users to filter by team or division. For those interested in exploring other games, the article highlights the availability of real-time scores and results. It also notes that recommendations are independently selected by editors, and the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission if purchases are made through provided links. Additional information includes disclaimers about gambling risks, emphasizing that all betting activities carry financial consequences and that users should verify details before placing bets. The article also mentions Gannett’s potential revenue from sports betting operators and provides resources for those seeking help with gambling-related issues. All times and details are accurate as of March 26, 2026, at 3:03 a.m. ET. Fans are advised to confirm schedules and availability, as regional restrictions or last-minute changes may affect viewing options.#washington_nationals #chicago_cubs #wrigley_field #marquee_sports_network #nationals_tv

2026 Washington Nationals Season Kicks Off with Cubs Clash at Wrigley Field The 2026 Washington Nationals season officially began with a matchup against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, marking the start of a challenging Opening Day for the team. Manager Blake Butera unveiled an unconventional lineup, setting the tone for a season filled with experimentation and adjustments. Leadoff hitter James Wood’s placement was expected, but the rest of the order featured several surprises, including Andres Chaparro’s unexpected second-hole slot and CJ Abrams’ move to the sixth spot. Abrams, who has primarily served as the team’s leadoff hitter in recent years, will likely shift to a higher position against right-handed pitchers but will face lefties in the sixth slot. Joey Wiemer’s Opening Day start was anticipated due to his strong performance against left-handed batters, while Luis Garcia Jr.’s absence from the lineup was unsurprising given his struggles against lefties. Cade Cavalli, making his 12th career big league start, will take the mound as the team’s Opening Day pitcher. The Cubs’ lineup presents a formidable challenge, featuring high-profile players such as Alex Bregman, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Dansby Swanson. Michael Busch, the Cubs’ leadoff hitter, is noted for his underrated hitting ability, adding depth to their offensive threat. The Cubs’ lineup is described as strong and deep, making it difficult for Cavalli to navigate. Matthew Boyd, who experienced a late-career resurgence in 2025, was also named to the Opening Day rotation. The game will be broadcast on 106.7 The Fan, with fans eagerly anticipating the start of the season. While the Nationals may not be considered a strong contender, the excitement of baseball returning has sparked optimism.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #chicago_cubs #wrigley_field #james_wood